Question 31 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Polity and
Governance

Question

Which principle among the following was added to the Directive Principles of State Policy by the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. Participation of workers in the management of industries

Strategy: The question asks for a DPSP added by the 42nd Amendment. Scan the options. 'Equal pay for equal work' (Art 39(d)), 'Right to work' (Art 41), and 'living wage' (Art 43) are original provisions. The principle of 'Participation of workers in the management of industries' (Article 43A) is a well-known addition from the 42nd Amendment. This direct recall of constitutional facts points to the correct answer.

Key Info: The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are enumerated in Part IV (Articles 36-51) of the Indian Constitution. These principles, though non-justiciable, are fundamental in the governance of the country.

## 42nd Amendment Act, 1976

Often called the 'Mini-Constitution', this amendment was enacted during the National Emergency. It introduced significant changes, including adding four new Directive Principles to the Constitution:

*   Article 39(f): To secure opportunities for the healthy development of children.
*   Article 39A: To promote equal justice and to provide free legal aid to the poor.
*   Article 43A: To take steps to secure the participation of workers in the management of industries.
*   Article 48A: To protect and improve the environment and to safeguard forests and wildlife.

## Analysis of Options

*   Option (a) - Equal pay for equal work for both men and women: This is enshrined in Article 39(d), a socialist principle that was part of the original Constitution.
*   Option (b) - Participation of workers in the management of industries: This corresponds to Article 43A, which was explicitly added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
*   Option (c) - Right to work, education and public assistance: This is covered under Article 41. It was part of the original Constitution and directs the state to make effective provisions for securing these rights in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement.
*   Option (d) - Securing living wage and human conditions of work to workers: This is mentioned in Article 43, another original provision that directs the state to secure a living wage, a decent standard of life, and full enjoyment of leisure for all workers.

Answer

Option A: Equal pay for equal work for both men and women

Answer

Option C: Right to work, education and public assistance

Answer

Option D: Securing living wage and human conditions of work to workers